Remaking Social Work with Children and Families

Remaking Social Work with Children and Familiesprovides a sustained examination of the 'modernization' of this area of social care. It analyzes some of the key themes introduced by the administrations of John Major and Tony Blair and provides a critical exploration of contemporary policy initiatives and issues. The author argues that political and ideological factors need to be taken into account in order to understand the dominant discourses and evolving practices of social work with children. Potential fixation with ensuring that young people are able to 'fit' into their allotted roles in a market economy and an overarching concern about children and criminality have been crucial in this respect. He concludes that while social workers and educators should be prepared to embrace change, they need to be critical agents in the process of change, recognising the ever present need to promote and foster democracy within the sphere of social welfare. This timely book will be helpful to allstudents, educators and social care professionals who are seeking to develop their theoretical and practical understanding of a changing profession.